Help Someone

If you or someone you know is in danger or needs immediate help, call 911.

If your friend or colleague has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual harassment, here are some ways you can be supportive:

Let them know university resources are available:

If your friend is a student, faculty, or staff member, let them know that help is available for confidential support and guidance.

Listen. Offer support and compassion. Be patient and try to avoid interrupting them or making statements that may be judgmental.

Don’t ask for details about what happened or why it happened. Let your friend share what they are comfortable sharing. Avoid questions that suggest blame.

Challenge statements of self-blame. Let your friend know the responsibility for the violence or harassment does not lie with your friend, regardless of what they did leading up to, during, or after what happened.

If your friend wants to seek medical attention or report the incident, offer to accompany that person to the hospital, police station, campus security, etc.

Ask how you can help.

Respect your friend's privacy. Do not tell others about your friend's incident or reveal any names or details, without permission.

Take care of yourself. Supporting a friend who has experienced sexual violence and/or harassment can be a very emotional and challenging experience. Pay attention to your needs — this could mean setting boundaries, spending time on activities you enjoy, or talking to a friend or counselor if needed.